Top 10 must have!

O.K., so gathering STUFF has commenced.  Piles are beginning in little "Z"'s room for our upcoming trip.  A packing list has been created.  Teachers have been contacted.  The principal has been informed of my kids absences.  Life is being organized and re-arranged around our travel dates.  Travel meetings scheduled with our agency.  Plans are being made for our littlest.  Conversations have begun with our two oldest kids about what they can expect to see, smell, hear and feel.

We are really going to meet our SON!

It's Monday and once again, I begin my week walking in circles.  I have decided that I will have to live by a list for the next 29 days if I am to actually get myself on that plane with my head attached.  So, todays list is my Top 10 packing items.

1. Prescriptions/Medicines - I am certain to be a walking pharmacy.  You just never know what you will encounter in a 3rd world country.  I would rather be prepared than sorry.  Walgreens is going to love me!  Their stocks will go up this week.  Buy now!  
2. Paperwork - I know their will be a LIST of things for our paperwork that we will need to bring.  Make room - this will be the MOST important item, next to my head, and cannot be checked in the luggage.  Seriously ... who knows if it will arrive.  It has been the holy grail of my life for the past year.  If the house goes up in flames and you can't find me ... check the office, I'm rescuing paper!  
3. Donations - This is getting fun!  "Z"'s room is over-flowing in Crocs, baby wipes, clothes, diapers and more.  So much need but only so much room will make this a tough one.  Good thing we get two trips.  
4. Electronics/Camera's - You only meet your son once.  I'd rather wear the same underwear 11 days in a row than to forget the items needed to document this unforgettable time.
5. Snacks/food - I can remember on my trip this past February (to Ethiopia), a few members of my team brought chocolate.  SERIOUSLY ... that was like being given a piece of heaven.  With 2 very American kids in tow, I am certain some familiar foods will be just what they need to get through some tough moments or days ... and I might just get to be hero of the day!!  
6. "Z" play backpack - Oh my goodness, this is crazy fun.  We bought "Z" his own backpack.  We won't leave it with him (as all things become communal property), but we will fill it each day with some things to do and play together.  When we come back to bring him home ... we will fill it with goodies just for him to help make the flights easier on the way HOME (we hope!)
7. Toilet Paper - Um, yeah, don't forget the Charmin!  Travel TP is a MUST when flying abroad.
8. Ear plugs - You should hear the dogs bark and the Muslim's praying at 4:00 am.  Without these, I will be a grumpy bear who was awakened from his hibernation.  Throw in extra for good measure.
9. Dakota's blankie - SHHHH!  Don't tell her I wrote that on a public place.  Yes, my 9 year old still loves her special blanket.  11 days without it, would be 11 miserable days.  If Dakota's happy, we're all happy.
10. Clothes - O.K., O.K., I suppose we should make room for some outfits for the 4 of us.  For sure, one nicer one for the day of court.  Maybe the judge will look on to a well polished American family and speak those magic words "He is Yours".  OH WE PRAY!!  We'll for sure have on clean underwear (see number 4) ... one extra at minimum.  
11. For good measure ... don't forget the cash.  You can't quite exchange VISA for burr. 

So what else??? I do have a lengthy packing list here on my desk ... but ... are you a been there, done that friend?  What is something you would have never thought to bring but so wished you had??  Let me know!  Don't leave a girl hanging.

Oh, I know ... my silk pillowcase.  The last time I asked that question, sweet Amy made the suggestion and every night as I laid my head down on my comfy pillow case - I thanked her!!